Lithium Batteries Update 2018 (59th IATA Edition)

The New Lithium Battery handling labels and shipping marks have been effective, under changes to the IATA dangerous goods transport regulations, since 1st Jan 2017. However, under the latest 59th edition of the regulations, effective from 1st January 2018, there are a couple of further updates.

Marking & labelling

Under section 7.1.5.5.2 of the new 59th edition of the IATA regulations, text has been added recommending that the UN number(s) on the lithium battery mark be of a minimum size of 12mm high.

NEW segregation provisions

The latest, 59th edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations has introduced segregation provisions for certain packages containing lithium batteries. While some of these provisions will come into effect immediately, together with the rest of the new provisions on January 1st, 2018, for others a transitional period has been devised.

The segregation table (Table 9.3.A) indicates which dangerous goods must not be stowed on an aircraft next to each other or in a position that would allow interaction between them in the event of leakage. In the 59th edition of the DGR, the table has been updated to include the new segregation requirements for packages containing:

In the case of different dangerous goods packed in one outer packaging, paragraph 5.0.2.11.h), note 4, explains as well that lithium batteries prepared according to sections IA or IB of packing instructions 968 or 965 are not permitted in the same outer packaging as other dangerous goods in the previously mentioned classes and divisions.

In these two cases, the new provisions came into effect on 1st January 2018 and there is NO transitional period.

This article should not be used in substitute for checking the exact requirements in the applicable modal regulations.

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